Health effects of olive oil polyphenols: recent advances and possibilities for the use of health claims

Chemical Characterization, Stability and Sensory Evaluation of Sicilian Extra Virgin Olive Oils: Healthiness Evidence at Nose Reach

The aim of this study was to assess the nutraceutical qualities of extra virgin olive oil (EVOO) samples obtained from three Sicilian olive cultivars: Nocellara, Biancolilla, and Cerasuola. We also evidenced the relationship among biophenols, base parameters and panel test scores, and evaluated the stability of the biophenols in EVOO. The assessment also took into consideration variations in olive harvesting periods and the influence of four different milling methods. A statistical analysis of the collected data revealed that the cultivar and harvesting period were the primary factors influencing the bio-phenol content, while the milling methods employed did not significantly affect the levels of biophenols in the oils. The panel test results were also illuminating as they were strongly related to the cultivar and polyphenol content. Following the criteria outlined in EC Regulation 432/2012, we selected three samples, each representing one of the cultivars, which exhibited the highest bio-phenol content to evaluate the biophenol stability during a time span of 16 months.

How the "Olive Oil Polyphenols" Health Claim Depends on Anthracnose and Olive Fly on Fruits

Olive anthracnose, caused by Colletotrichum fungi, and the olive fruit fly Bactrocera olea are, respectively, the most important fungal disease and pest affecting olive fruits worldwide, leading to detrimental effects on the yield and quality of fruits and olive oil. This study focuses on the content of hydroxytyrosol (HYT) and its derivatives (the "olive oil polyphenols" health claim) in olive oils extracted from fruits of 'Galega Vulgar' and 'Cobrançosa' cultivars, naturally affected by olive anthracnose and olive fly. The olives, with different damage levels, were harvested from organic rainfed orchards, located in the center of Portugal, at four harvest times over three years. Galega oils extracted from olives with a higher anthracnose and olive fly incidence showed no conformity for the extra virgin olive oil (EVOO) and virgin olive oil (VOO) categories, presenting high acidity and negative sensory notes accompanied by the disappearance of oleacein. Conversely, no sensory defects were observed in Cobrançosa oils, regardless of disease and pest incidence levels, and quality criteria were still in accordance with the EVOO category. The total HYT and tyrosol (TYR) content (>5 mg/20 g) allows for the use of the "olive oil polyphenols" health claim on the label of all the analyzed Cobrançosa olive oils.

A New Culture Medium Rich in Phenols Used for Screening Bitter Degrading Strains of Lactic Acid Bacteria to Employ in Table Olive Production

The olive oil industry recently introduced a novel multi-phase decanter with the "Leopard DMF" series, which gives a by-product called pâté, made up of pulp and olive wastewater with a high content of phenolic substances and without pits. This study aims to create a new culture medium, the Olive Juice Broth (OJB), from DMF pâté, and apply it to select bacteria strains able to survive and degrade the bitter substances normally present in the olive fruit. Thirty-five different bacterial strains of Lactiplantibacillus plantarum from the CREA-IT.PE Collection of Microorganisms were tested. Seven strains characterized by ≥50% growth in OJB (B31, B137, B28, B39, B124, B130, and B51) showed a degradation of the total phenolic content of OJB ≥ 30%. From this set, L. plantarum B51 strain was selected as a starter for table olive production vs. spontaneous fermentation. The selected inoculant effectively reduced the debittering time compared to spontaneous fermentation. Hydroxytyrosol, derived from oleuropein and verbascoside degradation, and tyrosol, derived from ligstroside degradation, were produced faster than during spontaneous fermentation. The OJB medium is confirmed to be useful in selecting bacterial strains resistant to the complex phenolic environment of the olive fruit.

A narrative review on dietary components and patterns and age-related macular degeneration

Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is one of the most prevalent eye diseases among the ageing population worldwide. It is a leading cause of blindness in individuals over 55, particularly in industrialised Western countries. The prevalence of AMD increases with age, and genetic factors and environmental influences are believed to contribute to its development. Among the environmental factors, diet plays a significant role in AMD. This review explores the association between dietary components, dietary patterns and AMD. Various nutrients, non-nutrient substances and dietary models that have the potential to counteract oxidative stress and inflammation, which are underlying mechanisms of AMD, are discussed. Consuming fruits, vegetables, fish and seafood, whole grains, olive oil, nuts and low-glycaemic-index foods has been highlighted as beneficial for reducing the risk of AMD. Adhering to the Mediterranean diet, which encompasses these elements, can be recommended as a dietary pattern for AMD. Furthermore, the modulation of the gut microbiota through dietary interventions and probiotics has shown promise in managing AMD.

Oat milk analogue versus traditional milk: Comprehensive evaluation of scientific evidence for processing techniques and health effects

Milk, enriched with high-quality protein, is a healthy and nutritious food that meets people's needs. However, consumers are turning their attention to plant-based milk due to several concerns, such as lactose intolerance, allergies and some diseases caused by milk; carbon emission from cattle farming; economical aspects; and low access to vitamins and minerals. Oat milk, which is produced from whole grain oats, is lactose free and rich in a variety of nutrients and phytochemicals. With the significant development of food processing methods and advancement in milk simulation products, the production of plant-based milk, such as cereal milk, has greatly progressed. This review described some features of oat milk analogue versus traditional milk and compared the properties, processing technologies, health effects, environmental friendliness, and consumer acceptance of these products. It is expected to provide a reference for evaluating development trends and helping consumers choose between oat milk and traditional milk.

Genome-Wide Analysis of the Polyphenol Oxidase Gene Family in Olea europaea Provides Insights into the Mechanism of Enzymatic Browning in Olive Fruit

Browning of olive (Olea europaea L.) fruit reduces the sensory and nutritional qualities of olive oil, thereby increasing production costs. Polyphenol oxidases (PPOs) are the key enzymes that catalyze phenolic substance oxidation and mediate enzymatic browning in olive fruit, but the exact regulatory mechanism remains unclear. The main challenge is the lack of comprehensive information on OePPOs at the genome-wide level. In this study, 18 OePPO genes were identified. Subsequently, we performed a bioinformatic analysis on them. We also analyzed the expression patterns and determined the relationship among browning degree, PPO activity, and expression of OePPOs in the fruits of three olive varieties. Based on our analysis, we identified the four most conserved motifs. OePPOs were classified into two groups, with OePPOs from Group 1 showing only diphenolase activity and OePPOs from Group 2 exhibiting both mono-/diphenolase activities. Seven pairs of gene duplication events were identified, and purifying selection was found to have played a critical role in the evolution of the OePPO gene family. A positive correlation was observed between the browning degree of olive fruit and PPO activity across different olive varieties. Moreover, two important genes were found: OePPO-5 the main effector gene responsible for fruit browning, and OePPO-8, a key gene associated with specialized metabolite synthesis in the olive fruit. In short, our discoveries provide a basis for additional functional studies on OePPO genes and can help elucidate the mechanism of enzymatic browning in olive fruit in the future.

Encapsulation of cannabidiol in oil-in-water nanoemulsions and nanoemulsion-filled hydrogels: A structure and biological assessment study

HYPOTHESIS

Lipophilic cannabidiol can be solubilized in oil-in water nanoemulsions, which can then be impregnated into chitosan hydrogels forming another colloidal system that will facilitate cannabidiol's release. The delivery from both systems was compared, alongside structural and biological studies, to clarify the effect of the two carriers' structure on the release and toxicity of the systems.

EXPERIMENTS

Oil-in-water nanoemulsions (NEs) and the respective nanoemulsion-filled chitosan hydrogels (NE/HGs) were formulated as carriers of cannabidiol (CBD). Size, polydispersity and stability of the NEs were evaluated and then membrane dynamics, shape and structure of both systems were investigated with EPR spin probing, SAXS and microscopy. Biocompatibility of the colloidal delivery systems was evaluated through cytotoxicity tests over normal human skin fibroblasts. An ex vivo permeation protocol using porcine ear skin was implemented to assess the release of CBD and its penetration through the skin.

FINDINGS

Incorporation of the NEs in chitosan hydrogels does not significantly affect their structural properties as evidenced through SAXS, EPR and confocal microscopy. These findings indicate the successful development of a novel nanocarrier that preserves the NE structure with the CBD remaining encapsulated in the oil core while providing new rheological properties advantageous over NEs. Moreover, NE/HGs proved to be more efficient as a carrier for the release of CBD. Cell viability assessment revealed high biocompatibility of the proposed colloids.

Can Essential Oils/Botanical Agents Smart-Nanoformulations Be the Winning Cards against Psoriasis?

Although psoriasis remains one of the most devastating inflammatory disorders due to its huge negative impact on patients’ quality of life, new “green” treatment approaches still need to be fully explored. The purpose of this review article is to focus on the utilization of different essential oils and active constituents of herbal botanical origin for the treatment of psoriasis that proved efficacious via both in vitro and in vivo models. The applications of nanotechnology-based formulations which displayed great potential in augmenting the permeation and delivery of these agents is also addressed. Numerous studies have been found which assessed the potential activity of natural botanical agents to overcome psoriasis. Nano-architecture delivery is applied in order to maximize the benefits of their activity, improve properties, and increase patient compliance. This field of natural innovative formulations can be a promising tool to optimize remediation of psoriasis while minimizing adverse effects.

Approaches in Hydroxytyrosol Supplementation on Epithelial-Mesenchymal Transition in TGFβ1-Induced Human Respiratory Epithelial Cells

Hydroxytyrosol (HT) is an olive polyphenol with anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. This study aimed to investigate the effect of HT treatment on epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) in primary human respiratory epithelial cells (RECs) isolated from human nasal turbinate. HT dose-response study and growth kinetic study on RECs was performed. Several approaches on HT treatment and TGFβ1 induction with varying durations and methods was studied. RECs morphology and migration ability were evaluated. Vimentin and E-cadherin immunofluorescence staining and Western blotting [E-cadherin, vimentin, SNAIL/SLUG, AKT, phosphorylated (p)AKT, SMAD2/3 and pSMAD2/3] were performed after 72-h treatment. In silico analysis (molecular docking) of HT was performed to evaluate the potential of HT to bind with the TGFβ receptor. The viability of the HT-treated RECs was concentration-dependent, where the median effective concentration (EC₅₀) was 19.04 μg/mL. Testing of the effects of 1 and 10 µg/mL HT revealed that HT suppressed expression of the protein markers vimentin and SNAIL/SLUG while preserving E-cadherin protein expression. Supplementation with HT protected against SMAD and AKT pathway activation in the TGFβ1-induced RECs. Furthermore, HT demonstrated the potential to bind with ALK5 (a TGFβ receptor component) in comparison to oleuropein. TGFβ1-induced EMT in RECs and HT exerted a positive effect in modulating the effects of EMT.

Ameliorative Effects of some Natural Antioxidants against Blood and Cardiovascular Toxicity of Oral Subchronic Exposure to Silicon Dioxide, Aluminum Oxide, or Zinc Oxide Nanoparticles in Wistar Rats

The present study determines the possible protective role of fig fruit extract with olive oil and date palm fruit extract (FOD) in decreasing the oral subchronic blood and cardiovascular toxicity of SiO₂NPs, Al₂O₃NPs, or ZnONPs. The present study used 80 male Wistar rats (8 groups, n = 10) distributed according to the treatment. The FOD treatments were used at their recommended antioxidant doses. All nanoparticles (NPs) were given orally and daily at doses of 100 mg/kg for 75 days. The oral administration of different NPs alone led to dramatic, oxidative stress, inflammatory markers, blood coagulation, endothelial dysfunction markers, myocardial enzymes, hematological parameters, lipid profile, and histopathological features compared with the control group. The FOD-NP-treated groups recorded significantly ameliorated blood and cardiovascular toxicity hazards compared to the groups administered with the NPs alone. In conclusion, the administration of FOD provides considerable chemopreventive and ameliorative effects against NP toxicity.

Prevention and Treatment of Obesity-Related Inflammatory Diseases by Edible and Medicinal Plants and Their Active Compounds

Obesity, defined by excessive fat mass and its associated low-grade chronic inflammation, leads to insulin resistance, diabetes, and metabolic dysfunctions. The immunomodulatory properties of natural agents have gained much interest in recent decades. Some of the plant-derived agents are known to be immunomodulators that can affect both innate and adaptive immunity, e.g., thymoquinone, curcumin, punicalagin, resveratrol, quercetin, and genistein. Natural immunomodulators may contribute to the treatment of a number of inflammatory diseases, as they have significant efficacy and safety profiles. The immunomodulatory effects of traditional Greco-Arab and Islamic diets and medicinal plants are well acknowledged in abundant in vitro studies as well as in animal studies and clinical trials. This review highlights the role of Greco-Arab and Islamic diets and medicinal plants in the management of inflammation associated with obesity. Although previously published review articles address the effects of medicinal plants and phytochemicals on obesity-related inflammation, there is no systematic review that emphasizes clinical trials of the clinical significance of these plants and phytochemicals. Given this limitation, the objective of this comprehensive review is to critically evaluate the potential of the most used herbs in the management of obesity-related inflammation based on clinical trials.

Irrigation of Young Olives Grown on Reclaimed Karst Soil Increases Fruit Size, Weight and Oil Yield and Balances the Sensory Oil Profile

The influence of different irrigation regimes on olive fruit morphological parameters and on the quantity and quality (marketable indices, phenolic content, fatty acid composition, and sensory profile) of virgin olive oil (VOO) obtained from the Croatian cultivar Oblica, grown on an extremely rocky and dry reclaimed karst soil, was studied over three years. Four treatments were applied: rain-fed and three treatments calculated as 50%, 75%, and 100% of the crop's irrigation requirement (Irr). Principal component analysis separated growing seasons (GS) that differed in precipitation. In the 2016 season, which had a low number of fruits per kilogram and provided a higher amount of balanced VOO with medium to intense bitterness and pungency (rain-fed treatment), the oil yield increased by irrigation (Irr 75 and Irr 100) up to 18%, while unchanged phenolics, bitterness, and pungency were observed for the VOOs obtained. In the drier GS (2017), which under rain-fed conditions had high fruit per kg, smallest fruit sizes, and lowest oil yield, and in which the VOOs had high phenolic content and intense sensory taste attributes, fruit weight, fruit sizes, and oil yield increased by 35% in all irrigation treatments, while phenols, bitterness, and pungency decreased, balancing the sensory profile of the VOOs. The results obtained here led us to conclude that the irrigation of young olives resulted in a positive effect, with the indication that an abundant water supply is more effective in drought conditions.

Dietary EVOO Polyphenols and Gut Microbiota Interaction: Are There Any Sex/Gender Influences?

Accumulating evidence indicates that regular consumption of extra virgin olive oil (EVOO), the main source of fat in the Mediterranean diet, is associated with beneficial health effects and a reduced risk of developing chronic degenerative disorders. The beneficial effects of EVOO can be attributed to its unique composition in monounsaturated fats and phenolic compounds that provide important antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and immune-modulating activities. On the other hand, it is well known that the gut microbiota has several important roles in normal human physiology, and its composition can be influenced by a multitude of environmental and lifestyle factors, among which dietary components play a relevant role. In the last few years, the two-way interaction between polyphenols, including those in EVOO, and the gut microbiota, i.e., the modulation of the microbiota by polyphenols and that of polyphenol metabolism and bioavailability by the microbiota, has attracted growing attention, being potentially relevant to explain the final effects of polyphenols, as well as of the microbiota profile. Furthermore, sex and gender can affect dietary habits, polyphenol intake, and nutrient metabolism. Lastly, it has been recently suggested that differences in gut microbiota composition could be involved in the unequal incidence of metabolic diseases observed between women and men, due to sex-dependent effects on shaping gut microbiota profiles according to diet. This review summarizes the most recent studies on the relationship between EVOO polyphenols and the gut microbiota, taking into account possible influences of sex and gender in modulating such an interaction.

Effect of Water Supplementation on Oxidant/Antioxidant Activities and Total Phenol Content in Growing Olives of the Morisca and Manzanilla Varieties

The objective of this work was to analyse, using a time series analysis, the effect of water regime for two cultivars at three stages of ripeness, during three consecutive years. Fruit and oil yield; O2− production and NADH oxidation activities; polyphenol oxidase (PPO), superoxide dismutase (SOD) and peroxidase (POX) activities; total phenols, flavonoid and phenylpropanoid glycoside content; and total antioxidant capacity (FRAP) were determined. All these parameters were found to depend on variety, irrigation and year. The results showed that the fruit and oil yields were strongly dependent on both irrigation and variety. The DW/FW ratio was practically constant during ripening, with small variety-dependent changes due to irrigation. Total amino acid and protein contents increased with ripening, with a close dependence on variety but not on irrigation. The SOD and POX activities appeared closely related, and related to the NADH oxidation and the amount of O2−. The evolution of phenols and FRAP during ripening was complementary to that of NADH oxidation, O2− production as well as SOD and POX activities. The determining factors of the SOD, POX and PPO activities were the variety and the ripening; the determining factor of the yield, ROS production, total phenols and antioxidant capacity was the water regime. Inverse correlations were observed between maximum temperature and total phenols (−0.869), total flavonoids (−0.823), total PPGs (−0.801) and FRAP (−0.829); and between DW/FW and irrigation (−0.483). The remaining significant correlations were positive.

An International Survey on Olive Oils Quality and Traceability: Opinions from the Involved Actors

A survey was launched to understand the current problems and sensitivities of the olive oil market through a series of questions clustered around topics related to quality, traceability, regulation, standard methods and other issues. The questions were selected after a series of interviews with different actors to identify those aspects where some disagreement or different points of view may exist. These questions were grouped in topics such as geographical traceability, consumer perception and quality management. The survey was addressed to eight different olive oil actors independently: producers, retailers, importers, exporters, analysts, workers at regulatory bodies, and consumers. Approximately half of the respondents (67.0% for consumers and 56.0% for the rest of olive oil actors) claimed to understand the importance of the protected designation of origin. In fact, the traceability objectives that were selected as the most relevant were those related with geographical traceability (19.3%) followed by the detection of adulteration (15.6%). Most of the respondents (80%) would agree to share data for a common database; however, some concerns exist about the use of these data and the issue of paying to have access to this database. The respondents mostly expressed an affirmative answer concerning the efficiency of panel test (74%) and a negative answer (90%) concerning the proposal of removing from regulation, although 42% agree with their revision for improvement. The opinions on “best before” date and their relationship with quality and the willingness to apply non-targeted methods were also surveyed.

Unveiling the Bioactive Potential of Fresh Fruit and Vegetable Waste in Human Health from a Consumer Perspective

Food supply disruption and shortage verified during the current pandemic events are a scenario that many anticipate for the near future. The impact of climate changes on food production, the continuous decrease in arable land, and the exponential growth of the human population are important drivers for this problem. In this context, adding value to food waste is an obvious strategy to mitigate food shortages, but there is a long way to go in this field. Globally, it is estimated that one-third of all food produced is lost. This is certainly due to many different factors, but the lack of awareness of the consumer about the nutritional value of certain foods parts, namely peels and seeds, is certainly among them. In this review, we will unveil the nutritional and bioactive value of the waste discarded from the most important fresh fruit and vegetables consumed worldwide as a strategy to decrease food waste. This will span the characterization of the bioactive composition of selected waste from fruits and vegetables, particularly their seeds and peels, and their possible uses, whether in our diet or recycled to other ends.

Accurate determination of total biophenols in unfractionated extra-virgin olive oil with the fast blue BB assay

The phenolic compounds of extra-virgin olive oil (EVOO) are key contributors of nutritional and sensory quality as well as chemical stability. The reference method for their determination is the HPLC-UV, which is cost-/time-expensive. In this work, total phenolic compounds were evaluated in unfractionated EVOO adapting the Fast Blue BB (FBBB) assay, which involves the spectrophotometric (absorbance at 420 nm) determination of azo derivatives resulting from the coupling of phenolic compounds with FBBB diazonium salt in alkali pH. When tested on 26 EVOO samples, the FBBB assay and HPLC-determinations were strikingly correlated (R² = 0.9653), differently from FBBB and Folin-Ciocalteu assays, which showed poor correlation. The assay is simple, repeatable, robust, rapid and cheap, and results might be evaluated on a printed colorimetric scale. This protocol of the FBBB assay could be routinely used to categorize EVOO according to the health claim allowed by EFSA concerning the content of phenolic compounds.

Treated Unconventional Waters Combined with Different Irrigation Strategies Affect 1H NMR Metabolic Profile of a Monovarietal Extra Virgin Olive Oil

The agricultural sector is facing a decrease in water supply and water quality at a global level and this is a problem that strictly affects all the Mediterranean olive growing areas. The aim of this work was to evaluate, for the first time, by NMR Spectroscopy and multivariate data analysis the metabolic profiling of the oils produced under different irrigation schemes. Arbosana olive oils were obtained from the use of saline reclaimed water (RW) and treated municipal wastewater (DW), combined with: full irrigation (FI) and regulated deficit irrigation (RDI). The results show a higher relative content of saturated fatty acids in EVOOs obtained from RDI strategy, regardless of the water source. Moreover, an increase in unsaturated fatty acids, a ω6/ω3 ratio content was observed in EVOOs obtained from RW when compared with DW water. Furthermore, the RW–RDI showed an increase in secoiridoid derivatives and hydroperoxides with respect to DW–RDI. A sustainable irrigation management, by combining a deficit irrigation strategy and saline reclaimed water source, could be crucial in order to overcome the problem of water scarcity and to guarantee the olive oil nutraceutical properties. The 1H NMR-based metabolomic approach proved a powerful and versatile tool for this specific investigation.

Angioprevention of Urologic Cancers by Plant-Derived Foods

The number of cancer cases worldwide keeps growing unstoppably, despite the undeniable advances achieved by basic research and clinical practice. Urologic tumors, including some as prevalent as prostate, bladder or kidney tumors, are no exceptions to this rule. Moreover, the fact that many of these tumors are detected in early stages lengthens the duration of their treatment, with a significant increase in health care costs. In this scenario, prevention offers the most cost-effective long-term strategy for the global control of these diseases. Although specialized diets are not the only way to decrease the chances to develop cancer, epidemiological evidence support the role of certain plant-derived foods in the prevention of urologic cancer. In many cases, these plants are rich in antiangiogenic phytochemicals, which could be responsible for their protective or angiopreventive properties. Angiogenesis inhibition may contribute to slow down the progression of the tumor at very different stages and, for this reason, angiopreventive strategies could be implemented at different levels of chemoprevention, depending on the targeted population. In this review, epidemiological evidence supporting the role of certain plant-derived foods in urologic cancer prevention are presented, with particular emphasis on their content in bioactive phytochemicals that could be used in the angioprevention of cancer.

Synergistic Effect of Squalene and Hydroxytyrosol on Highly Invasive MDA-MB-231 Breast Cancer Cells

Several studies relate Mediterranean diet and virgin olive oil (VOO) intake with lower risk of several chronic diseases, including breast cancer. Many of them described antitumor properties of isolated minor compounds present in VOO, but beneficial properties of VOO arise from the effects of all its compounds acting together. The aim of the present study was to test the antitumor effects of two minor compounds from VOO (hydroxytyrosol (HT) and squalene (SQ)) on highly metastatic human breast tumor cells (MDA-MB-231) when acting in combination. Both isolated compounds were previously analyzed without showing any antitumoral effect on highly invasive MDA-MB-231 breast cancer cells, but the present results show that HT at 100 µM, combined with different concentrations of SQ, could exert antitumor effects. When they are combined, HT and SQ are able to inhibit cell proliferation, promoting apoptosis and DNA damage in metastatic breast cancer cells. Therefore, our results suggest that the health-promoting properties of VOO may be due, at least in part, to the combined action of these two minor compounds.

Tyrosol and Hydroxytyrosol Determination in Extra Virgin Olive Oil with Direct Liquid Electron Ionization-Tandem Mass Spectrometry

Extra virgin olive oil (EVOO) is one of the main ingredients of the Mediterranean diet. It is claimed as a functional food for its unique content of health-promoting compounds. Tyrosol (Tyr), Hydroxytyrosol (Htyr), and their phenolic derivatives present in EVOO show beneficial properties, and their identification and quantification, both in their free form and after the hydrolysis of more complex precursors, are important to certify its quality. An alternative method for quantifying free and total Tyr and Htyr in EVOO is presented using an LC–MS interface based on electron ionization (EI), called liquid electron ionization (LEI). This method requires neither sample preparation nor chromatography; the sample is diluted and injected. The selectivity and sensitivity were assessed in multiple reaction monitoring mode (MRM), obtaining confirmation and quantification in actual samples ranging from 5 to 11 mg/Kg for the free forms and from 32 to 80 mg/Kg for their total amount after hydrolysis. Two MS/MS transitions were acquired for both compounds using the Q/q ratios as confirmatory parameters. Standard addition calibration curves demonstrated optimal linearity and negligible matrix effects, allowing a correct quantification even without expensive and difficult to find labeled internal standards. After several weeks of operation, the system’s repeatability was excellent, with an intraday RSD (%) spanning from five to nine and an interday RSD (%) spanning from 9 to 11.

Assessment of Adherence to the Healthy Food Pyramid in Pregnant and Lactating Women

There are numerous dietary recommendations during pregnancy. However, there are limited recommendations during the lactation period, a nutritionally vulnerable period for women. The Mediterranean Diet and adherence to the Healthy Food Pyramid (HFP) is considered as the standard for healthy eating. In this study, we investigated the differences in adherence to the HFP in pregnant, lactating, and non-pregnant/non-lactating (NPNL) women concerning sociodemographic factors. A sociodemographic and nutritional and lifestyle questionnaire (AP-Q) were used to assess adherence to the HFP, including lifestyle. The AP-Q score ranges from 0 to 10 meaning the higher the score, the greater the adherence to the HFP. Lactating women had the lowest AP-Q score (6.13 [5.31; 6.82]) compared to the pregnant (6.39 [5.56; 7.05]) and NPNL women (6.27 [5.43; 6.88]), while pregnant women had the highest scores. Maternal age was positively correlated with AP-Q score in pregnant (rho = 0.22; p-Value < 0.001) and lactating women (rho = 0.18; p-Value < 0.001), but not in NPNL women. Educational level and monthly income had a positive influence on the degree of adherence to the HFP. In conclusion, breastfeeding mothers of young age and low socioeconomic and educational level would be the target population to carry out nutritional interventions that improve their adherence to the HFP. The knowledge gained from this study can help to design recommendation guidelines and nutritional educational interventions for a given population.

Bioactive Compounds in Edible Oils and Their Role in Oxidative Stress and Inflammation

Diet and inflammatory response are recognized as strictly related, and interest in exploring the potential of edible fats and oils for health and chronic diseases is emerging worldwide. Polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) present in fish oil (FO), such as eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), may be partly converted into oxygenated bioactive lipids with anti-inflammatory and/or pro-resolving activities. Moreover, the co-presence of phenolic compounds and vitamins in edible oils may prevent the development of chronic diseases by their anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, neuroprotective, and immunomodulatory activities. Finally, a high content in mono-unsaturated fatty acids may improve the serum lipid profile and decrease the alterations caused by the oxidized low-density lipoproteins and free radicals. The present review aims to highlight the role of lipids and other bioactive compounds contained in edible oils on oxidative stress and inflammation, focusing on critical and controversial issues that recently emerged, and pointing to the opposing role often played by edible oils components and their oxidized metabolites.

Virgin Olive Oil Phenols, Fatty Acid Composition and Sensory Profile: Can Cultivar Overpower Environmental and Ripening Effect?

The authenticity and typicity of monocultivar oils and knowledge of the changes that environmental olive growing conditions bring to naturally present antioxidants and sensory attributes of virgin olive oils (VOO) are important for quality and safety improvement. This study delivers a comprehensive evaluation of the factors affecting phenolics, fatty acid composition and sensory characteristics of cultivars Oblica and Leccino VOOs throughout ripening season at two distinct olive growing environments during three consecutive crop years, and ranks the importance of each factor. Specified parameters were significantly influenced by olive growing environmental conditions. At the colder location of higher altitude, both cultivars gained higher amount of stearic, linoleic and linolenic fatty acids, as well as a higher proportion of phenolic compounds, but lower amounts of oleic fatty acid. At the warmer location of lower altitude, both cultivars had oils with lower level of fruitiness, bitterness and pungency. Analysis of the main components showed that VOOs were primarily differentiated by the cultivar, then main groups were divided with regard to the growing site, while harvest period affected the biosynthesis of natural VOOs antioxidants but had the least impact. These results reveal that the composition of fatty acids, phenolic content and sensory profile are predominantly characteristics of a cultivar.

Polyphenols Rich Diets and Risk of Type 2 Diabetes

Type 2 diabetes is an increasing health concern worldwide. Both genetic and environmental risk factors as improper dietary habits or physical inactivity are known to be crucial in the pathogenesis of type 2 diabetes. Polyphenols are a group of plant-derived compounds with anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that are associated with a low prevalence of metabolic conditions characterized by insulin resistance, including obesity, diabetes, and hypertension. Moreover, there is now full awareness that foods that are rich in phytochemicals and polyphenols could play an important role in preserving human cardiovascular health and substantial clinical evidence indicates that regular dietary consumption of such foods affects favorably carbohydrate metabolism. This review briefly summarizes the evidence relating dietary patterns rich in polyphenols with glucose metabolism and highlights the potential benefits of these compounds in the prevention of type 2 diabetes.

Antioxidant Properties and Fatty Acid Profile of Cretan Extra Virgin Bioolive Oils: A Pilot Study

Olive oil is considered a valuable ingredient of human diet. It is a good source of mono- and polyunsaturated fatty acids, as well as other bioactive compounds, especially polyphenols. The composition of olive oil depends mainly on the variety of plant, cultivation practices, and manufacturing conditions. Traditional processing methods may ensure better quality and health benefits. Therefore, the aim of the study was the evaluation of antioxidant properties and fatty acid profile of Cretan extra virgin bioolive oils. These ones were compared with commercial Spanish, Italian, and Greek extra virgin olive oils. Obtained results showed that sample Cretan 1 had about 15% higher antioxidant capacity and about 60% higher total polyphenol content than commercial counterparts. This one had also a favorable profile of fatty acids, especially 20% more linoleic acid. We concluded that traditional production methods, using millstones, cold pressing, and without centrifugation and filtration ensure better olive oil quality and related health benefits.

Coulometrically determined antioxidant capacity (CDAC) as a possible parameter to categorize extra virgin olive oil

Antioxidant capacity of extra virgin olive oil (EVOO) is associated with the overall content of health-promoting compounds, including biophenols. In this work, antioxidant capacity of polar extracts from 42 EVOO and 3 edible seed oil samples was evaluated by constant-current coulometry, using Br₂ electrogenerated at a Pt anode as the titrant and bioamperometric detection of the end-point through Br₂ excess. The Coulometrically Determined Antioxidant Capacity (CDAC) of EVOO extracts covered the 8-25 mmol electrons (e^-) kg^-1 range, while it was lower for seeds oils (≤5 mmol e^- kg^-1). Average CDAC of EVOO with biophenols ≥ 250 mg kg^-1 (15 ± 4 mmol e^- kg^-1) was significantly higher than EVOO with biophenols < 250 mg kg^-1 (10 ± 2 mmol e^- kg^-1). CDAC is a robust, cheap, and rapid test that could be exploited to classify EVOO relying on antioxidant capacity rather than on HPLC-determined content of biophenols.

Phosphoproteomic Analysis and Protein-Protein Interaction of Rat Aorta GJA1 and Rat Heart FKBP1A after Secoiridoid Consumption from Virgin Olive Oil: A Functional Proteomic Approach

Protein functional interactions could explain the biological response of secoiridoids (SECs), main phenolic compounds in virgin olive oil (VOO). The aim was to assess protein-protein interactions (PPIs) of the aorta gap junction alpha-1 (GJA1) and the heart peptidyl-prolyl cis-trans isomerase (FKBP1A), plus the phosphorylated heart proteome, to describe new molecular pathways in the cardiovascular system in rats using nanoliquid chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry. PPIs modified by SECs and associated with GJA1 in aorta rat tissue were calpain, TUBA1A, and HSPB1. Those associated with FKBP1A in rat heart tissue included SUCLG1, HSPE1, and TNNI3. In the heart, SECs modulated the phosphoproteome through the main canonical pathways PI3K/mTOR signaling (AKT1S1 and GAB2) and gap junction signaling (GAB2 and GJA1). PPIs associated with GJA1 and with FKBP1A, the phosphorylation of GAB2, and the dephosphorylation of GJA1 and AKT1S1 in rat tissues are promising protein targets promoting cardiovascular protection to explain the health benefits of VOO.

The potential neuroprotective roles of olive leaf extract in an epilepsy rat model induced by kainic acid

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

Epilepsy is recognized as a chronic neurologic disease. Increasing evidence has addressed the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory roles of olive leaf extract (OLE) in neurodegenerative diseases. So, the current study aimed to investigate the neuroprotective roles of OLE in epilepsy.

EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH

Forty rats were divided into 4 groups including a control group, sham group, kainic acid (KA) group, and KA + OLE group. KA (4 μg/rat) was injected intrahippocampal, and OLE (300 mg/kg) was orally administrated for 4 weeks. Animals were sacrificed, and their hippocampi were isolated. KA- induced seizure activity was recorded. Oxidative stress index was assessed by measuring its indicators including malondialdehyde (MDA), nitrite, nitrate, and glutathione (GSH) as well as the catalase (CAT) activity. The supernatant concentration of tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) and the apoptosis rate in neurons were measured.

FINDINGS/RESULTS

Treatment with OLE significantly reduced the seizure score. OLE decreased oxidative stress index by reducing the concentration of MDA, nitrite, and nitrate as well as increasing the level of GSH. OLE had a significant anti-apoptotic effect on neurons. However, CAT activity and the level of TNF-α were not affected.

CONCLUSION AND IMPLICATIONS

Our findings indicated neuroprotective properties of OLE, which is mainly mediated by its antioxidant and anti-apoptotic effects, therefore, could be considered as a valuable therapeutic supplement for epilepsy.

Memory enhancement in Argentinian women during postpartum by the dietary intake of lignans and anthocyanins

Due to their polyphenolic content, vegetable foods have neuroprotective effects which provide health benefits for specific human groups. Thus, they may be a useful dietary component for women who experience mnesic variations during postpartum, and here we examined the hypothesis that polyphenols can differentially enhance memory functioning. In particular, we aimed to associate the dietary intake of polyphenols with different memory systems in Argentinian postpartum women. The daily intakes of polyphenol groups were calculated using a validated food frequency questionnaire and the Phenol-Explorer database. Short-term memory (STM), long-term memory (LTM), learning (L), lexical-semantic memory (LSM), and working memory (WM) were assessed. Partial Least Squares (PLS) regression models were used to analyze the dietary polyphenols (predictors) and memory domains (responses), taking into account demographic, obstetric, and psychological factors. The sample included 71 women, with an average age of 29.59 years (SE = 0.73). Most of these women lived in a couple (91%), were unemployed (63%), and had ≥12 years of formal education (72%). STM, LTM, L, and LSM correlated with lignans and anthocyanins, with LTM also being correlated with flavanones, flavonols, and tyrosols, and L and LSM also being associated with flavonols. A significant correlation was also found between WM and lignans. In conclusion, a cognitive improvement was demonstrated, mainly associated with the intake of lignans and anthocyanins, in the STM, LTM, WM, L, and LSM systems of postpartum women. This is the first study to our knowledge suggesting a role of polyphenolic effects on memory functioning during postpartum.

Exploratory Analysis of Commercial Olive-Based Dietary Supplements Using Untargeted and Targeted Metabolomics

The market of olive-based dietary supplements (OBDS) is composed of a broad range of natural extracts claiming different health effects and often sold without a clear statement on their chemical composition. The aim of this survey was to characterize the chemical profiles of 14 commercially available OBDS. As many as 378 compounds were tentatively annotated in the analyzed samples. Although for most of metabolites the annotation at level I was prevented due to the lack of the analytical standard, the spectra obtained from high-resolution tandem mass spectrometry (MS/MS) measurements were very informative, allowing annotation of dozens of metabolites at level II or III. A targeted method allowed the quantification of 26 selected compounds. A large qualitative and quantitative variability was observed. The products obtained from buds by glyceric maceration were those with the lowest concentrations of all the quantified elements. The dose of 5 mg of hydroxytyrosol, corresponding to the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) health claim, was only reached by four products, all of them originating from the olive fruit or the leaves. If we also take into consideration oleuropein, two additional products provide this daily amount. This work demonstrates the high complexity and diversity in the composition of OBDS.

Semi-synthesis as a tool for broadening the health applications of bioactive olive secoiridoids: a critical review

Covering: 2005 up to 2020Olive bioactive secoiridoids are recognized as natural antioxidants with multiple beneficial effects on human health. Nevertheless, the study of their biological activity has also disclosed some critical aspects associated with their application. Firstly, only a few of them can be extracted in large amounts from their natural matrix, namely olive leaves, drupes, oil and olive mill wastewater. Secondly, their application as preventive agents and drugs is limited by their low membrane permeability. Thirdly, the study of their biological fate after administration is complicated by the absence of pure analytical standards. Accordingly, efficient synthetic methods to obtain natural and non-natural bioactive phenol derivatives have been developed. Among them, semi-synthetic protocols represent efficient and economical alternatives to total synthesis, combining efficient extraction protocols with efficient catalytic conversions to achieve reasonable amounts of active molecules. The aim of this review is to summarize the semi-synthetic protocols published in the last fifteen years, covering 2005 up to 2020, which can produce natural olive bioactive phenols scarcely available by extractive procedures, and new biophenol derivatives with enhanced biological activity. Moreover, the semi-synthetic protocols to produce olive bioactive phenol derivatives as analytical standards are also discussed. A critical analysis of the advantages offered by semi-synthesis compared to classical extraction methods or total synthesis protocols is also performed.

The Role of Individual Knowledge in Functional Olive Oil Preferences: Does Self-Coherence Lead to Different Health Attributes Perception?

This study examined whether health cues influence the choices of olive oil consumers with different degrees of knowledge about the nutritional properties of olive oil. To this end, a direct survey on the consumption of healthy extra-virgin olive oil was implemented by examining the stated preferences of a sample of consumers. Two econometric analyses were carried out to identify the drivers of the consumption of olive oil with high polyphenol content. The logistic model was chosen as the most suitable method to answer the research questions. The results revealed a general consensus among consumers regarding the beneficial properties of olive oil consumption. Moreover, the findings show that different degrees of individual knowledge act as distinctive drivers in influencing the health perception of olive oil consumers. Finally, this study verified that, even for healthy foods, consumers’ choices are strongly dependent on their own self-coherence. As a consequence, consumers’ knowledge or beliefs that orientate their attitudes are influenced by different motivations and attributes.

Evaluating the Variability in the Phenolic Concentration of Extra Virgin Olive Oil According to the Commission Regulation (EU) 432/2012 Health Claim

The health benefits of extra virgin olive oil (EVOO) are associated to its fatty acids profile (with predominance of oleic acid) and to the minor components that include phenols, among others. Phenols are responsible for the only health claim of olive oil reported in the Commission Regulation (EU) 432/2012. Here, we have applied a liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry method to determine the most abundant phenols included in the health claim (with special emphasis on secoiridoids) in 1239 EVOO samples produced in two consecutive agronomical seasons. The predominant cultivars in Spain ("Picual", "Arbequina", "Hojiblanca", and "Cornicabra") were evaluated. We also studied the influence of harvesting date and orchard location on the EVOO phenolic concentration. A great variability in phenolic content, from 1 to 2850 mg/kg, was found in these EVOOs, and not all of them (4.6 and 23.1% in the two seasons) reported a concentration above 250 mg/kg to certify the health claim.

Anti-oxidant and anti-inflammatory effects of caffeic acid: in vivo evidences in a model of noise-induced hearing loss

SCOPE

The imbalance of cellular redox status, in conjunction with the activation of inflammatory processes, have been considered common predominant mechanisms of noise-induced hearing loss. The identification of novel natural products as potential therapeuticstargeting oxidative stress and inflammatory pathways is an emerging field. Here, we focused on the polyphenol caffeic acid (CA), the major representative of hydroxycinnamic acids and phenolic acid, in order to investigate its protective capacity in a model of sensorineural hearing loss induced by noise.

METHODS AND RESULTS

Hearing loss was induced by exposing animals (Wistar rats) to a pure tone, 120 dB, 10 kHz for 60 min. By using auditory brainstem responses (ABRs) and immunofluorescence analysis, we found that CA protects auditory function and limits cell death in the cochlear middle/basal turn, damaged by noise exposure. Immunofluorescence analysis provided evidence that CA mediates multiple cell protection mechanisms involving both anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidant effects by decreasing NF-κB and IL-1β expression in the cochlea and opposing the oxidative/nitrosative damage induced by noise insult.

CONCLUSIONS

These results demonstrate that the supplementation of polyphenol CA can be considered a valid therapeutic strategy for attenuating noise-induced hearing loss and cochlear damage targeting both inflammatory signalling and cochlear redox balance.

Iron and Chelation in Biochemistry and Medicine: New Approaches to Controlling Iron Metabolism and Treating Related Diseases

Iron is essential for all living organisms. Many iron-containing proteins and metabolic pathways play a key role in almost all cellular and physiological functions. The diversity of the activity and function of iron and its associated pathologies is based on bond formation with adjacent ligands and the overall structure of the iron complex in proteins or with other biomolecules. The control of the metabolic pathways of iron absorption, utilization, recycling and excretion by iron-containing proteins ensures normal biologic and physiological activity. Abnormalities in iron-containing proteins, iron metabolic pathways and also other associated processes can lead to an array of diseases. These include iron deficiency, which affects more than a quarter of the world's population; hemoglobinopathies, which are the most common of the genetic disorders and idiopathic hemochromatosis. Iron is the most common catalyst of free radical production and oxidative stress which are implicated in tissue damage in most pathologic conditions, cancer initiation and progression, neurodegeneration and many other diseases. The interaction of iron and iron-containing proteins with dietary and xenobiotic molecules, including drugs, may affect iron metabolic and disease processes. Deferiprone, deferoxamine, deferasirox and other chelating drugs can offer therapeutic solutions for most diseases associated with iron metabolism including iron overload and deficiency, neurodegeneration and cancer, the detoxification of xenobiotic metals and most diseases associated with free radical pathology.

Extra-Virgin Olive Oil from Apulian Cultivars and Intestinal Inflammation

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is a multifactorial intestinal disorder characterized by chronic intestinal inflammation. The etiology of IBD is still unclear, although genetic, environmental and host factors have been associated to the disease. Extra-virgin olive oil (EVO) is a central component of the Mediterranean diet and it decreases chronic inflammation by interfering with arachidonic acid and NF-κB signaling pathways. Specifically, the different components of EVO are able to confer advantages in terms of health in their site of action. For instance, oleic acid displays a protective effect in liver dysfunction and gut inflammation, whereas phenolic compounds protect colon cells against oxidative damage and improve the symptoms of chronic inflammation in IBD. Given the biological properties of EVO, we investigated whether its administration is able to confer protection in a mouse model of dextrane sodium sulfate (DSS)-induced colitis. Four EVO cultivars from the Apulian Region of Italy, namely Ogliarola (Cima di Bitonto), Coratina, Peranzana and Cima di Mola, respectively, were used. Administration of EVO resulted in reduced body weight loss in our colitis model. Furthermore, mice treated with Ogliarola, Coratina and Cima di Mola EVO displayed a reduction of rectal bleeding and IL-1β, TGFβ, IL-6 gene expression levels. Furthermore, Ogliarola, Coratina and Peranzana EVO administration ameliorated intestinal permeability and histopathological features of inflammation. Our data further validate the well-known positive effects of EVO supplementation in promoting human health and suggest the bona fide contribution of EVO in preventing onset and reducing progression of intestinal inflammation.

Reuse of Food Waste and Wastewater as a Source of Polyphenolic Compounds to Use as Food Additives

The problem of waste and byproducts generated from agro-industrial activities worldwide is an increasing concern in terms of environmental sustainability. In this ambit, the quantity of food wastes—produced in all steps of the whole food chain—is enormous, and it may be forecasted that food waste could amount to more than 120 billion tonnes by 2020. The reuse of food waste and wastewater as source of polyphenolic compounds could be an interesting discussion in this ambit. In fact, polyphenols obtained in this way might be used for food and non-food purposes by means of new, improved, and safe extraction methods. In light of the opportunity represented by the treatment of agro-industrial waste, different systems concerning the winemaking and olive oil production industries have also been discussed as describing approaches applicable to other sectors. More research is needed before considering recovery of phenolic compounds from wastewater as an economically convenient choice for the food sector.

The Role of Selected Bioactive Compounds in the Prevention of Alzheimer's Disease

Neurodegeneration is a feature of many debilitating, incurable age-dependent diseases that affect the nervous system and represent a major threat to the health of elderly persons. Because of the ongoing process of aging experienced by modern societies, the increasing prevalence of neurodegenerative diseases is becoming a global public health concern. A major cause of age-related dementia is Alzheimer’s disease (AD). Currently, there are no effective therapies to slow, stop, or reverse the progression of this disease. However, many studies have suggested that modification of lifestyle factors, such as the introduction of an appropriate diet, can delay or prevent the onset of this disorder. Diet is currently considered to be a crucial factor in controlling health and protecting oneself against oxidative stress and chronic inflammation, and thus against chronic degenerative diseases. A large number of bioactive food compounds may influence the pathological mechanisms underlying AD. Among them, phenolic compounds, omega-3 fatty acids, fat-soluble vitamins, isothiocyanates, and carotenoids seem to be promising. They act not only as antioxidant and anti-inflammatory agents, but also as active modulators of the pathological molecular mechanisms that play a role in AD development, including the formation of amyloid plaques and tau tangles, the main hallmarks of AD pathology. In vivo animal model studies as well as clinical and epidemiological research suggest that nutritional intervention has a positive effect on the health of older people and may prevent age-related cognitive decline, especially when the diet contains more than one bioactive nutrient. The Mediterranean diet and in particular its combination with Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension, which is called the MIND diet, are nutritional patterns based on many products rich in bioactive compounds that appear to be the most effective in preventing neurodegeneration. The present review gathers evidence that supports the neuroprotective effect of bioactive substances.

Nutritional and other health properties of olive pomace oil

Olive-pomace oil is rich in oleic acid, and thus it can be an interesting dietary fat alternative as it can allow reaching the recommendation of consuming 20% of total diet energy in the form of monounsaturated fatty acids. In addition, olive-pomace oil also contains a wide range of minor components that may contribute to its healthy properties. The major components identified with healthy properties are triterpenic dialcohols and acids, squalene, tocopherols, sterols, fatty alcohols and phenolic compounds. The refining process, that the crude pomace-oil must undergo for commercial purposes, significantly reduces the content of phenolic compounds, while the other minor components remain at concentrations which can induce positive health effects, especially on cardiovascular health, outstanding pentacyclic triterpenes and aliphatic fatty alcohols in olive-pomace oil. Numerous in vitro and preclinical studies support that mainly the pure compounds, or extracts isolated from plant sources, play an important role in preventing cardiovascular disease and risk factors. Likewise, tocopherols, squalene and phytosterols, in addition to the minor fraction of phenolic compounds, have shown high biological activity with particular association to the cardiovascular function. In the light of the foregoing, and taking into consideration the absence of clinical studies with olive-pomace oil, it would be of great interest to develop randomized, crossover, controlled, double-blind studies to extend the knowledge and understanding on the health effects of olive-pomace olive.

The Secrets of the Mediterranean Diet. Does [Only] Olive Oil Matter?

Diet plays a key role in the maintenance and optimal functioning of immune cells. The Mediterranean dietary pattern is an example of a prudent choice of lifestyle and scientifically accepted to help preserve human health by protecting against major chronic and inflammatory diseases. Mediterranean diets (MedDiets) are characteristically high in the consumption of fruits, vegetables and salad, bread and whole grain cereals, potatoes, legumes/beans, nuts, and seeds. Their common central feature is the usage of olive oil as the main source of fat. The health benefits attributed to olive oil are specifically related to extra virgin olive oil (EVOO) intake with its high nutritional quality and multiple positive effects on health. Overall, MedDiets have direct (mono-unsaturated fatty acids (MUFAs), tocopherols, polyphenols) and indirect (low saturated fats, well-balanced linoleic/alpha linolenic acid) effects on the immune system and inflammatory responses. In the present paper, we summarize the current knowledge on the effect of olive oil per se and MedDiets generally on immune-mediated and inflammatory diseases, such as coronary heart disease (CHD)/cardiovascular diseases (CVD), obesity, type-2 diabetes, cancer, asthma, and allergies.

Two novel methylesterases from Olea europaea contribute to the catabolism of oleoside-type secoiridoid esters

Two newly identified phytohormone cleaving esterases from Olea europaea are responsible for the glucosidase-initiated activation of the specialized metabolites ligstroside and oleuropein. Biosynthetic routes leading to the formation of plant natural products are tightly orchestrated enzymatic sequences usually involving numerous specialized catalysts. After their accumulation in plant cells and tissues, otherwise non-reactive compounds can be enzymatically activated, e.g., in response to environmental threats, like pathogen attack. In olive (Olea europaea), secoiridoid-derived phenolics, such as oleuropein or ligstroside, can be converted by glucosidases and as yet unidentified esterases to oleoside aldehydes. These are not only involved in pathogen defense, but also bear considerable promise as pharmaceuticals or neutraceuticals. Making use of the available olive genomic data, we have identified four novel methylesterases that showed significant homology to the polyneuridine aldehyde esterase (PNAE) from Rauvolfia serpentina, an enzyme acting on a distantly related metabolite group (monoterpenoid indole alkaloids, MIAs) also featuring a secoiridoid structural component. The four olive enzymes belong to the α/ß-hydrolase fold family and showed variable in vitro activity against methyl esters of selected plant hormones, namely jasmonic acid (MeJA), indole acetic acid (MeIAA), as well as salicylic acid (MeSA). None of the identified catalysts were directly active against the olive metabolites oleuropein, ligstroside, or oleoside 11-methyl ester. When employed in a sequential reaction with an appropriate glucosidase, however, two were capable of hydrolyzing these specialized compounds yielding reactive dialdehydes. This suggests that the esterases play a pivotal role in the activation of the olive secoiridoid polyphenols. Finally, we show that several of the investigated methylesterases exhibit a concomitant in vitro transesterification capacity-a novel feature, yielding ethyl esters of jasmonic acid (JA) or indole-3-acetic acid (IAA).

Polyphenols for diabetes associated neuropathy: Pharmacological targets and clinical perspective

OBJECTIVES

Diabetic neuropathy (DNP) is a widespread and debilitating complication with complex pathophysiology that is caused by neuronal dysfunction in diabetic patients. Conventional therapeutics for DNP are quite challenging due to their serious adverse effects. Hence, there is a need to investigate novel effective and safe options. The novelty of the present study was to provide available therapeutic approaches, emerging molecular mechanisms, signaling pathways and future directions of DNP as well as polyphenols' effect, which accordingly, give new insights for paving the way for novel treatments in DNP.

EVIDENCE ACQUISITION

A comprehensive review was done in electronic databases including Medline, PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus, national database (Irandoc and SID), and related articles regarding metabolic pathways on the pathogenesis of DNP as well as the polyphenols' effect. The keywords "diabetic neuropathy" and "diabetes mellitus" in the title/abstract and "polyphenol" in the whole text were used. Data were collected from inception until May 2019.

RESULTS

DNP complications is mostly related to a poor glycemic control and metabolic imbalances mainly inflammation and oxidative stress. Several signaling and molecular pathways play key roles in the pathogenesis and progression of DNP. Among natural entities, polyphenols are suggested as multi-target alternatives affecting most of these pathogenesis mechanisms in DNP.

CONCLUSION

The findings revealed novel pathogenicity signaling pathways of DNP and affirmed the auspicious role of polyphenols to tackle these destructive pathways in order to prevent, manage, and treat various diseases. Graphical Abstract .

Mediterranean products as promising source of multi-target agents in the treatment of metabolic syndrome

Alteration of nutritional habits play an essential role on the risk of developing Metabolic Syndrome (MetS). Several epidemiological studies have shown that assuming diets rich of foods included in the Mediterranean diet (MetDiet) pattern like, such as olive oil, nuts, fruit, fiber, vegetables, wine and grain cereals has protective effects on the different risk factors characterizing the MetS. The beneficial effects of the MetDiet in the MetS are mainly due to the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties of the most abundant phytochemical components of such foods as polyphenols like resveratrol and oleuropein, allyl sulfides, ellagic acid, mono- and poly-unsaturated fatty acids (MUFA and PUFA), tocopherols and flavonoids like quercetin, which have shown positive results in the prevention of cardiovascular diseases (CVDs), with related risk factors, like hypertension, hypercholesterolemia and obesity. In this review, we highlighted the multi-target activities of the bioactive components contained in some foods typical of the Mediterranean area like olive oil, onion, liquorice, rosemary, oregano, hazelnut, pistachio, "Melannurca" apple, red wine, hot pepper, Citrus sp. fruits, saffron and garlic, with particular focus on their impact on health outcomes in relation to MetS main key factors, such as insulin resistance (IR) and type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), endothelial dysfunctions, inflammatory response, oxidative stress and dyslipidaemic and hypercholesterolemic effects.

Serial Plasma Phospholipid Fatty Acids in the De Novo Lipogenesis Pathway and Total Mortality, Cause-Specific Mortality, and Cardiovascular Diseases in the Cardiovascular Health Study

Background Synthesized fatty acids (FAs) from de novo lipogenesis may affect cardiometabolic health, but longitudinal associations between serially measured de novo lipogenesis-related fatty acid biomarkers and mortality or cardiovascular disease (CVD) are not well established. Methods and Results We investigated longitudinal associations between de novo lipogenesis-related fatty acids with all-cause mortality, cause-specific mortality, and incident CVD among 3869 older US adults, mean (SD) age 75 (5) years and free of prevalent CVD at baseline. Levels of plasma phospholipid palmitic (16:0), palmitoleic (16:1n-7), stearic (18:0), oleic acid (18:1n-9), and other risk factors were serially measured at baseline, 6 years, and 13 years. All-cause mortality, cause-specific mortality, and incident fatal and nonfatal CVD were centrally adjudicated. Risk was assessed in multivariable-adjusted Cox models with time-varying FAs and covariates. During 13 years, median follow-up (maximum 22.4 years), participants experienced 3227 deaths (1131 CVD, 2096 non-CVD) and 1753 incident CVD events. After multivariable adjustment, higher cumulative levels of 16:0, 16:1n-7, and 18:1n-9 were associated with higher all-cause mortality, with extreme-quintile hazard ratios (95% CIs) of 1.35 (1.17-1.56), 1.40 (1.21-1.62), and 1.56 (1.35-1.80), respectively, whereas higher levels of 18:0 were associated with lower mortality (hazard ratio=0.76; 95% CI=0.66-0.88). Associations were generally similar for CVD mortality versus non-CVD mortality, as well as total incident CVD. Changes in levels of 16:0 were positively, and 18:0 inversely, associated with all-cause mortality (hazard ratio=1.23, 95% CI=1.08-1.41; and hazard ratio=0.78, 95% CI=0.68-0.90). Conclusions Higher long-term levels of 16:0, 16:1n-7, and 18:1n-9 and changes in 16:0 were positively, whereas long-term levels and changes in 18:0 were inversely, associated with all-cause mortality in older adults.